Otitis Externa: Symptoms, Causes, Cure & Prevention

by ListeningLab SingaporeApril 06, 2018

In our previous post, we talked about otitis media, a type of infection in the middle ear and one of the major causes of hearing loss. Today, we are going to discuss about otitis externa, another type of ear infection and another reason that causes hearing loss. Everything you need to know about swimmer’s ear will be tackled in this article, including the causes, treatments, symptoms, and some practical ways to reduce the chances of developing such condition.

Otitis externa is an inflammation in the ear canal, the bridge that connects the ear drums to the external part of the whole organ. This condition can either be acute or chronic. The following details the difference between these two.

Acute otitis externa: inflammation in the ear canal that lasts from days up to 6 weeks

Here are some signs and symptoms that may tell if you have an inflammation in your ear canal.

Pain in the affected ear

Itching and irritation somewhere around the ear canal

Redness and swelling of the outer ear or ear canal

Fullness in the affected ear

Scaling or peeling of skin around the ear canal

Watery or pus-like discharge from the affected ear

Ear or jaw movements feel tender

Swollen throat glands

Hearing loss

CAUSES OF OTITIS EXTERNA

There are several reasons why inflammation in the ear canal occur. Take note of the following causes of otitis externa.

As the name suggests, swimmer’s ear is commonly caused by swimming or bathing, especially in dirty or chlorinated water. This is why professional swimmers or those whose jobs require a regular exposure to water are more prone to developing external ear infection.

Excessive moisture can trigger inflammation in the ear as well. This can be developed through exposure to humid environment or when there’s water trapped in the ear after showering. But while this condition can happen upon too much exposure to polluted water, it is worthy of noting that too much dryness of the ear canal can also result to inflammation.

Infections such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus can also trigger otitis media. In the same way that skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and allergic conditions such as rhinitis and asthma heightens the risk of developing inflammation in the ear canal.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR OTITIS EXTERNA?

When treating otitis externa, the main goal is to cure the infection, relieve the pain, and prevent its recurrence.

Your healthcare professional will most likely prescribe an ear drop, which you will be applying a few number of times per day. Depending on the severity and effect of otitis externa in your ear, your consultant may advise using antibiotic ear drop, antifungal ear drop, acidic ear drop to kill bacteria, or corticosteroid ear drop to reduce swelling if any.

For severe cases, painkillers may be prescribed or antibiotic tablets should ear drops don’t work. If there’s a pus or boil that was developed, your consultant may suggest to carry out an incision and drainage. Also, if you have an underlying condition, your healthcare professional may decide that curing it is the best way to prevent recurrence of otitis externa.

HOW TO PREVENT OTITIS EXTERNA?

There’s no such way to avoid developing otitis externa completely. However, we know some practical ways to reduce the risk of getting your ear canals inflamed.

Avoid using sharp tools to clean your earwax, as this may cause damage to your ear canal.

Avoid getting water or soap into your ears.

Don’t bathe or swim in dirty water.

When swimming, use a shower cap or ear plugs to prevent accumulation of water inside the ears.

After swimming, shake your head from side to side to drain off water from the ears.

After bathing or swimming, dry your ears using a hair dryer in low mode.

Latest Articles

Newsletter Subscription

Send us your email and get a monthly newsletter on the latest happenings from The Listening Lab including giveaways, discounts and events!

Founded by hearing care industry specialists with more than 40 years of experience, the Listening Lab provides advanced technology to diagnose and maintain your hearing aids and deliver the best listening experience for you.